Men’s Mental Health
Many men struggle with their mental health but do not receive the support that they need. From a young age, boys and men are socialized to be self-reliant, strong, independent, and in control of their emotions. These expectations may have been reinforced throughout their lives, which can influence men to be less likely to talk about and seek help for their mental health.
There are many reasons that men may be reluctant to seek support, including traditional masculine norms and ideals, societal expectations, life experiences, their identities, and the stigma of receiving mental health support. If you are struggling, you are not alone. Our team can provide you with a caring and non-judgemental space to help you live your best life possible.
Key facts:
Men are less likely to talk about, recognize, and look for support for mental health conditions, even though the rates of mental illness are comparable between men and women.
In Canada, women attempt suicide more often, but 75% of deaths caused by suicide are by men.
Depression in men may include symptoms such as increased anger, irritability, impulsivity, substance use, and physical pain. Because men may present symptoms of depression that are different than what is expected, their symptoms may not be recognized as depression, and they may not seek out or receive the support they need.
New fathers can experience postpartum depression. Postpartum depression in fathers ― sometimes called paternal postpartum depression ― can have the same negative effect on partner relationships and child development as postpartum depression in mothers can.
In Canada, young men aged 19-29, gay or bisexual, and racialized men are at a significantly higher risk for depression and anxiety compared to the broader male population.
Next Steps
Help is available. Therapy can be an effective way to address mental health conditions, find new ways to deal with challenges, and achieve your personal goals.
Our team is here to help. For a free phone consultation or to book an appointment, please call us at (587) 570-4896 or fill out our contact form.
References
Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Advancing Boys' and Men's Health: Outcomes from 11 years of CIHR-IGH Funded Research. Ottawa, ON: Canadian Institutes of Health Research; 2021.
Canadian Men’s Health Foundation. (29, May 2024). Canadian Men’s Health Report: Mental Health Research. https://menshealthfoundation.ca/research/2024-mens-depression-anxiety-study/
Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2022, July 6.). Men’s Mental Health and Suicide in Canada [PDF]. https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Mens-Mental-Health-and-Suicide-in-Canada-Key-Takeaways.pdf
HeadsUpGuys. (n.d.). Symptoms of Depression. https://headsupguys.org/mens-depression/symptoms/#ref